Quilt #91 Joan Schneiter donated by the Martin Family

Joan with Toni's husband, children and grandchildren

This block called The
Friendship Star was
a favorite of both
Toni and Joan.

Quilt # 91 was presented to Joan Schneiter by the entire Martin family. Weeks ago Toni's daughter, Ashlee, talked with me about how the family wanted to make a quilt for Joan to show their appreciation for love and support Joan had given Toni and the entire family during Toni's battle with cancer.

Then a few weeks later, I got a message from Ashlee that while she was looking through patterns and fabric in her mothers sewing room,, she just happened upon a quilt topper that her mother had sewn before she was diagnosed. She felt strongly that her mother had led her to this beautiful quilt top. She felt it was as if Toni had meant it to be given to Joan.

The quilt was sent off to the quilter and when finished all the quilters in the Martin tribe took turns sewing on the binding.

The quilt is a celebration of nearly 60 years of devoted friendship. A friendship with so many layers beginning in childhood and lasting until Toni's final moments here on this earth. And there is no mistaking that their connection with be enjoyed through the eternities.

The family wrote a poem for Joan to share their appreciation:

In the days since Toni's passing, we have turned to one another

Often times reflecting on the support for our wife, grandmother and mother

Our family's thoughts aligned with one very important goal:

Give thanks to an amazing woman who has play a vital role

A person that's been there all along the way, but especially in trial

Lovingly called an earthly Angel, she was with Toni all the while

Since nearly 60 years ago she's love Toni fiercely, without end

Who else could we mean, but Joan? The world's greatest friend.

Many of our memories as kids include "Mom's best friend Jn oan"

Like when they'd spend hours on end just talking on the phone

There were countless summer picnics and summer days spent with her at the park

One thing we can say for sure: her love has left its mark.

Their epic friendship stood the test of time, including time in college

It's possible, as roommates. they gained more memories than knowledge

Through several moves and life events, they always kept in touch

They were even each other's therapists when life seemed like too much 

Together they had their book club, and discovered many favorite reads

"A Joan in their life" is what Toni always said everybody needs

Lunchtime outings and dinner dates never seemed in short supply

Followed by hours spent talking in the driveway, unable to say "bye"

When things were looking grim, Joan was never far away

Spending countless hours with Tonz during every hospital stay

She offered to take our kids at every turn, treating them like her own

Whether she like it or not she's quickly become our kids' adopted "Grandma Joan"

From tea parties with the girlies to meals cooked for our dad

Joan's friendship and compassion made things seem a little less bad

Through little wins and major setbacks, Joan was always there

With words of support, a listening ear, and a heart filled up with prayer

As quilting partners Tonz and Joan created many works of art

Each piece they stitched together holds a special place in someone's heart

We're certain that Joan's endless love and kindness cannot be repaid

But for starters we knew she needed to have the last quilt Toni made

As their friendship came too quickly to its Earthly end

We hope this quilt will always help Joan feel her North Star Friend

We have all been blessed by this enviable friendship. Toni's love so generously shared in life, is definitely sewn in the stitches for her dearest friend Joan.

Love in the stitches....